We are continuing to closely monitor the devastating situation unfolding in Israel, and want to take a moment to share the latest information. Here is what we know so far: [Heidi Gantwerk and David Bark]
Jewish Federation of San Diego Reports on Israel-Gaza War: October 8 Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, Middle East, San Diego County
By Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — Our last day of the CommUNITY Trip to Israel found us at Anu, The Museum of the Jewish People. This incredible museum shares the story of the Jewish people over thousands of years and celebrates a remarkably rich and diverse tapestry of modern Jewish life. To walk into a
Celebrating the Richness and Diversity of Our Jewish Community Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, Opinion, San Diego County
By Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — After Jewish Federation of San Diego’s unforgettable CommUNITY Trip to Israel–truly the trip of a lifetime–a group of us headed to the airport this morning, with alerts pinging on our phones and watches signaling more rocket attacks throughout the South and other areas of Israel. Last night, all 220
A Life-Changing Trip Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, Middle East, Opinion, San Diego CountyJERUSALEM (Press Release) – Heidi Gantwerk, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County, is among 12 Jewish women that Masa Israel Journey has recognized for their leadership and commitment to advancing a brighter future in honor of International Women’s Day. Masa is committed to helping young Jewish adults realize their potential
Federation CEO Among Jewish Women Recognized for Advancing a Brighter Future Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego County, USABy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — On Friday, as we marked International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Jewish Federation of San Diego County has an eye toward the future. We are proud and excited to announce a new partnership with San Diego’s local group of Holocaust Survivors, the New Life Club, on several important care and legacy
On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, New Partnership Will Preserve Legacies Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Holocaust, Opinion, San Diego County
By Heidi Gantwerk JERUSALEM — Shabbat greetings from Jerusalem, where my team and I are working on the itinerary for Federation’s CommUNITY Trip in May. I am struggling to find words for all that we have already seen and experienced. Beyond the endless food, the beauty of winter light in Jerusalem, the (ahem) excitement of
The Impact You Have in Israel Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, Opinion, San Diego CountyAs the end of the year approaches, we ask that you include Federation in your charitable giving. Your donation will help us continue and expand our vital work, which aims to enrich the lives of Jewish San Diegans and Jews around the world. [Heidi Gantwerk]
Why Federation Deserves Your Support Before Year’s End Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — As I prepared my remarks for last week’s Town Hall on Antisemitism, once again I came back to the need to balance the light with the dark. It is essential that we pay attention to the darkness surrounding us; that we stay strong and resilient and outspoken. But it
Forging Lasting Connections With Israel Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Israel, Opinion, San Diego CountySome of you may have heard about an incident at Carmel Valley Middle School, where a teacher there had on display, among several pictures of other historical figures, a photo of Adolph Hitler. When confronted by a student who protested, the teacher responded that while Hitler did some bad things he also displayed strong leadership qualities. Parents and community members were rightfully very concerned and expressed that concern to school district leaders. [Heidi Gantwerk]
Hitler’s Portrait and a Response to Antisemitism Read More »
California, Heidi Gantwerk, Holocaust, Jewish History, San Diego County, Science, Medicine, & Education, USABy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — Almost 30 years ago, my husband and I moved from New York to San Diego for a quick two-year post-doc. Clearly, our plans changed, and we have made a rich, rewarding life for our family here in San Diego. Through our synagogue, chavurah, the JCC, San Diego Jewish Academy
The Special Relevance of Passover This Year Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — A few weeks ago I had the privilege of listening to Deborah Lipstadt speak in conversation with Rabbi Jason Nevarez in a wide-ranging discussion about security, antisemitism, racism, Holocaust denial, and Jewish identity. She was asked how she stays standing given all the ugliness she deals with and teaches
A Stronger, More Rooted San Diego Jewish Community Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, Opinion, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk Last Saturday, we all followed the attack in Colleyville, fearful of the worst possible ending as we also were reminded of our own local past tragedies. The Jewish Federation of San Diego County and ADL San Diego were in touch immediately to share updates and discuss potential local warnings. Federation also was
From Darkness to Light Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk SAN DIEGO — During turbulent times, Jewish Federation of San Diego County is laser focused on caring for Jews in need. More than 10,000 Jews in San Diego live at or near the poverty line, including includes seniors, Holocaust Survivors, single parents, and people with disabilities and mental illness. The Federation is
Taking Care of Holocaust Survivors: Our Collective Responsibility Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego CountyBy Heidi Gantwerk I write this Shabbat message from Israel, where I am filled with emotion and excitement—even though I’m still in quarantine, having only landed here earlier today. If you’ve been here, you know. There is just nothing like being in Israel with its inspiring, vibrant mix of ancient and new, traditional and innovative,
Strengthening People-to-People Relationships, from San Diego to Sha’ar HaNegev Read More »
Heidi Gantwerk, San Diego County